Bringing the Outdoors In with the PicNYC Table

For city folks and cold-climate dwellers that want a taste of the outdoors — meet the PicNYC table, an agri-industrial design concept by Dutch architect Haiko Cornelissen (by way of New York City). With this novel idea, it's acceptable and even encouraged to spill a glass of water on the table!

The cleverly dubbed PicNYC table brings the picnic experience inside with a living surface suitable for growing grass, herbs, and even small flowers. Just imagine — you could snip a fresh bouquet of basil for a garnish, right from the table.

A lightweight aluminum tabletop and set of legs provide the sturdy framework for grass, soil and stones (which are needed for proper drainage). The only drawback to this design is that it doesn't come with its own mini lawnmower, so the grass will have to be trimmed by hand.

According to the designer, the PicNYC table "creates a surreal experience of nature in the city that literally transforms dining." So you can be munching on your PB&J with your elbows in the grass, looking out your apartment window... and marveling at snow flurries drifting through the air.